The Illegal Ousting of Hon. Alice Tangi in Bayelsa State

Democracy in Bayelsa State has suffered a devastating blow. In an overzealous and unscrupulous act of total lawlessness, the state’s political leadership executed an unconstitutional coup against the democratically elected leadership of the Sagbama Local Government Area.

Hon. Mrs. Alice Tangi, only the second elected female chairman in the 30-year history of Bayelsa State—and its only currently serving elected female chairman—has been unlawfully ousted alongside her deputy, Sufade Tobi. With just eight months remaining in her term, her office was reportedly surrounded by military and police forces to forcibly strip her of her mandate.

Driven by Political Coercion

This move is widely seen as a deliberate and desperate attempt to eliminate a strong leader ahead of upcoming elections.

According to various reports and political observers, Hon. Tangi, a devoted leader and loyal People’s Democratic Party (PDP) member, was targeted due to her political stance. Sources suggest she was handed an ultimatum: defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC) along with other state leaders or face impeachment. Her refusal to abandon the people who elected her under the PDP platform made her a prime target for removal.

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Defiance of the Judiciary

What makes this situation even more alarming is the blatant disregard for the rule of law. Hon. Mrs. Alice Tangi had secured a clear court order from Justice D.E. Adokeme of the Bayelsa High Court, instructing all parties to maintain the status quo pending a hearing scheduled for August 20, 2026.

However, the State House of Assembly completely disregarded this judicial authority. Citing “gross misconduct”—including allegations of failing to present monthly briefings and annual budgets—the Assembly pushed through with her removal on August 18, deploying security forces and overriding a standing court order.

Grassroots Backlash and an Illegal Swearing-In

The actions of the state leadership have not gone unnoticed by the people. Hon. Tangi’s community, thrilled with her dedicated service, has been actively demonstrating against this perceived injustice.

Despite the grassroots backlash and the pending court case, the political machinery moved swiftly. In a desperate bid to seal this act, Hon. Diepreye Roseline Yankee, the Leader of the House, was reportedly sworn in as acting Chairman.

Stand Up for Justice

We strongly condemn this tyrannical assault on women in leadership, the judiciary, and the constitutional rights of the people of Sagbama. The removal of an elected official over political affiliations and in defiance of a court order is a threat to the very fabric of democratic governance.

Stand up for democracy and demand justice for Hon. Mrs. Alice Tangi!

What are your thoughts on this blatant disregard for the judiciary? Share your views and comment below!